High hopes for WVU FB in '06

By Heath Bloxton
Less than a month after West Virginia’s Sugar Bowl victory over Georgia, Mountaineer coaches, players and fans are already looking forward to next season. The Mountaineers are returning most of their starters from the 2005-2006 team. More notably, offensive speedsters Pat White and Steve Slaton are coming back after a phenomenal freshman season and will look to turn the Mountaineers into an offensive powerhouse.

The Mountaineers defensive backfield will have to be rebuilt, but several top recruits have already committed to playing for the Mountaineers next season. With Mike Lorello and Jahmile Addae leaving for graduation, the secondary will also lose its senior leadership. However, as in last season, young talent will be called upon to lead the corner and safety positions.

The linebacker positions will remain strong, as they will be returning Kevin McLee and Jay Henry. The defensive line will return two of their starters, but will lose Ernest Hunter due to graduation.

West Virginia is returning most of their offensive line including second-team All American center Dan Mozes. Mozes changed to center from the guard position, due to the lack of players at the position. Mozes did not disappoint as he powered the offense to become one of the nation’s top running teams.

Also returning is fan favorite Owen Schmitt, who transferred to WVU from a junior college to play the fullback position. Owen powered through defenses with his intelligent and athletic running ability. Look for Schmitt to make a big-power impact in an offense that will be looked at from a speed standpoint.

The Mountaineers have already been predicted to start the 2006-2007 season in the top three in the nation. Some experts have even said the Mountaineers will be the number one team in college football.

Only time will tell whether the Mountaineers will be able to repeat a BCS appearance. If they live up to expectations, then Mountaineer fans can count on another exciting season of West Virginia University football.